How planets orbit the sun {a Montessori-inspired activity}

One of the facts I wanted my kids to understand about the planets is that they orbit around the sun in a large circle. Taking an idea from the Montessori Astronomy Album I received when I participated in KHT Montessori’s certificate program, I set up this simple activity to give my kids a concrete understanding of how planets orbit the sun.

I teach science to first graders and needed more than one pie pan and ball so they could individually experience the sun/earth path. I ended up using paper plates that had a high rim. I had flat circular yellow foam shapes which I had the students put in the middle of each plate and gave them each a blue marble. I wanted the size proportion to be evident. It worked great! For the moon around the earth I gave them each a small blue plastic bowl from the dollar store and a cotton ball. This one was a bit trickier, however, I always tell them that if I bring all easy activities we wouldn’t be able to practice. Failing is the fun part where we get to try and try again.
Thanks for this great hands on idea : )

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